What's the deal?

To introduce myself: I am Mary Beth. I am a struggling reporter, jaded by the industry, unhappy with my writing and generally worried and anxious. About a week ago, I decided to get happy. It's not necessarily that easy, but I took a journey through my memories to a time when I was happy with my hobbies. When I was 14, I started making my own web sites. I was addicted to the Internet, and I loved to create. Also when I was 14, I collected amazing nail polish colors, designed my own mixes and created looks that told the world I was unique!

Now, I've seen the nail polish blogs, and I love the work they do-- clean lines, beautiful nails and wonderful work. I'll be straight up with you-- I am not that good. I don't have a steady hand, and I could never have been a surgeon. In fact, despite my high IQ, and genius-level test scores, the aptitude tests told me I would best be suited as a Christmas Tree farmer. I guess in the real world that translates to reporter, so here I am.

What I do know is that nail polish makes me happy. Nail polish is one-size-fits-all. With a swipe of a color you can tell the world, you're not one of the everyday folks. I enjoy color, and I enjoy sparkle, and deal with it because that's who I am.

After years in the corporate reporting world, without *gasp* any color to show for it, I decided to say screw the suits, the plain nails, the no makeup, the ponytails and plain face. I decided to emerge from the shadows and say take it or leave it to the male reporters, editors and publishers who control the specific type of reporting I do.

The trick is now to do it. I've decided to be happy, and from a recent episode of Monk, I realized happiness is a choice. (Thank you Lt. Disher). I just don't necessarily have the skills to do it. So on this blog you will see my journey into happiness, and I am happy to share. Chances are you'll see nails that are a little messy, lips gloss that's not perfectly refined, and eyeshadow that -- well, you probably have some tips to share with me about, but I am committed to making it happen and sharing it with you, whoever you are along the way.

I've asked all my friends, family and trusted co-workers to help. As it's near the holidays, I've asked for nail polish and beauty essentials from everyone so I can rebuild the collection I threw away when I decided to be stiff. As I pull in my hauls, I invite you to join me in my journey into happiness.